Marvel unveils next line of AR comics

Geeks of the world rejoice. Marvel is going high-tech.

The comics giant has announced a partnership with Autonomy’s Aurasma platform. According to TechCrunch, the new partnership will allow people to view video trailers of the books they see in store.

The AR app will also reportedly allow people to view, among other things, 3D animations and recaps by holding up their phones to the comics.

Speaking at South by South West, Marvel representatives said they hoped “build out DVD and Blu-Ray extras into the comic book itself.”

Marvel Infinite Comics will apparently be “the first marvel comics built strictly for digital. They’ll use parameters of your iPhone or iPad. It’s a new canvas for storytelling.”

Marvel seems particularly keen on pushing digital as part of its future strategy.

The company recently announced that when people bought physical copies of certain comics they would receive the same edition for free on the on the Marvel Comics app for iOS and Android devices.

“We’re committed to bringing fans the best value in comics. By including codes for free digital copies in all our US$3.99 super hero comics, we’re doing just that,” said David Gabriel, SVP of sales. “The positive reactions from both retailers and fans make it clear that including these codes with our books drives customers into comic stores on a repeated basis.”

“At Marvel, we’re always looking for ways to bring the worlds of print and digital media together to deliver the best comics experience for our fans,” said Peter Phillips, SVP & GM, Marvel Digital Media.

“With this next step, fans will soon be able to buy their comics from their favourite retailers but also enjoy them on their mobile devices and tablets, all at no extra charge. Welcome to the Revolution.”